Definition

Orbital cellulitis is a serious infection of the bony cavity in which the eyeball sits. This cavity is called the orbit. It is surrounded by sinuses. The sinuses are the hollow areas of the skull around the nose.

Orbital cellulitis affects not only the eye, but also the eyelids, eyebrows, and cheeks. It causes the eyeball to have a swollen appearance. If the infection is not treated, it can lead to blindness.

Eyeball in Orbit

The cavity below the eye is a sinus, the most common place for the infection to start.

Treatment

Antibiotics are given to treat the infection. They will be started right away, even before results from the laboratory have come back. Antibiotics are generally given by mouth for three weeks. If the infection is serious, antibiotics may be given through an IV for at least several days.

Diuretics or eye drops
are given to help decrease pressure within the eyeball.

Oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain

Surgery may be performed to drain a pus collection from an infected sinus or orbit.

If you are diagnosed with orbital cellulitis, follow your doctor's
instructions.

Prevention

Treating sinus or dental infections right away may prevent them from spreading to the eyes. In addition, children should be protected with the Hib B vaccine, which will prevent most of the
Haemophilus influenzae
type B
infections.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.